Technical Assistant I - Lehmann Lab (Relocation Assistance Available!)

Job Description Summary:

ABOUT THE LEHMANN LAB

To ensure generational continuity of cellular functions, DNA, along with machinery and organelles that decode the genome, must be faithfully inherited through germ cells that give rise to eggs and sperm. The Lehmann lab studies these germ cells across their developmental progression using the fruit fly model organism to define regulations of cellular inheritance and features that set these germ cells apart from their somatic counterparts.

OVERALL RESPONSIBILITY

The Lehmann lab seeks a motivated Technical Assistant I to work under the guidance of postdoctoral researchers to investigate the cell biology of germ cells during oogenesis and embryogenesis. Specifically, the research will center around the dynamics, structures, functions, and regulations of the endoplasmic reticulum– an organelle that performs a wide range of essential functions – as well as the intracellular bacteria Wolbachia—which is passed on across generations through the female germline. At the interface of cell biology, developmental biology, and host-pathogen interaction, the research will employ techniques such as cloning and fly transgenesis, microscopy, proteomics, and sequencing. This position will offer the candidate a broad training experience in different questions and techniques and will be the best fit for organized and motivated candidates who plan to pursue a PhD or MD/PhD program. The Technical Assistant will perform bench-level experiments and small independent research projects to support scientific research objectives of the lab. They will analyze experimental data, address methodological problems in experimental protocols and results, and report data to supervisor.

CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES

• Perform experiments under guidance of mentor(s). After the training period, perform more independent experiments. Experimental tasks include ordering and preparing reagents as well as operating laboratory instruments.
• Perform data analysis and keep detailed experiment records in lab notebook.
• Participate in experiment design and data discussions with direct mentor(s) and PI and group discussion (lab meetings); present data to direct mentor(s), PI and other lab members.
• Participate in training activities available at the institute, such as seminars, workshops, and journal clubs.
• Molecular cloning.
• Work with fruit flies (e.g. stock maintenance, genetic crosses, dissection, and tissue fixation).
• Work with insect cell tissue culture (e.g. maintain and expand insect cell cultures).
• Sample preparation (e.g. immunofluorescence, in situ hybridization, RNA or protein extraction, fractionation).
• Data acquisition (e.g. operate a variety of confocal microscopes).
• Data analysis (e.g. image processing and quantification).
• Collaborate with mentor(s) and other lab members.
• Consult scientific literature as needed.
• Other duties, as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in biology or a field directly related to the work.
• Prior experience working in a hands-on research lab is required.
• Proficient in basic lab techniques and principles of molecular biology preferred.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills required.
• Strong organizational skills, time management skills, and ability to multi-task.
• Prior experience with fly, tissue culture, or microscopy is preferred.
• Proven ability to work well on a team as well as individually.
• Willingness to learn and strong work ethics.
• Able to commit 2 years to the position.